South Africa: Nigerian Union seeks transparent probe of Doctor’s death

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has demanded a transparent investigation into the death of Dr. Francis Idika.

According to reports, Dr. Idika, who served as Medical Manager at Vryheid Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, died on March 30, 2025.

NUSA officials visited his widow in Pretoria and expressed concern over how hospital authorities handled the case.

Hospital authorities claimed Dr. Idika committed suicide, but NUSA firmly rejected the claim.

The union accused Vryheid Hospital managers of harassing and abusing Dr. Idika for years.

NUSA’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Akindele Olunloye, released a statement urging South African authorities to uncover the truth.

He said the hospital management victimised Dr. Idika with repeated disciplinary actions and unfair treatment.

In December 2024, unknown persons reportedly forced Dr. Idika out of his apartment and scattered his belongings.

NUSA stated that those actions contributed to his emotional distress and eventual death.

The union insisted the post-mortem report showed he died of natural causes, not suicide.

NUSA accused the hospital of spreading false claims to cover up internal abuse.

The union demanded the Department of Health retract its statement on SABC and eNews that suggested suicide.

They also called on the department to support Dr. Idika’s widow and children.

NUSA pledged to work with the South African National Civic Organisation and the Public Servants Association.

The Nigerian Doctors Forum of South Africa and Nigerian diplomatic missions will also join efforts to seek justice.

NUSA condemned the systemic harassment of foreign professionals, especially Nigerian doctors in South Africa.

The group claimed the abuse and intimidation Dr. Idika endured pushed him over the edge.

NUSA demanded a forensic, independent investigation into his death and the roles of those involved.

They called for disciplinary actions against anyone found guilty of bullying or harassing him.

The union urged South African institutions to protect foreign professionals working in critical sectors.

NUSA vowed to ensure no Nigerian professional suffers similar abuse again in South Africa.

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